My Face, My Voice
David Adeniji Ayodeji, 29, is an HIV/AIDS advocate and the financial secretary of people living with HIV/AIDS national association in Nigeria. When David was diagnosed with HIV, he resolved to fight the virus and live a healthy life.
“I feel very comfortable speaking of my HIV/AIDS status. I have information on how to live positively and this has helped me live my life free from worries. I have peace of mind devoid of any stigma or shame.
David Adeniji Ayodeji, 29, is an HIV/AIDS advocate and the financial secretary of people living with HIV/AIDS national association in Nigeria. When David was diagnosed with HIV, he resolved to fight the virus and live a healthy live.
For David, addressing and overcoming self-stigma was a first step for him, “a major concern being faced within the community of people living with HIV/AIDS” says David, adding that “it is an unrealistic assumption that can lead one to early grave”.
“In some parts of the country HIV/AIDS is still a big issue, which isn't discussed like it should be, they see HIV as a curse. Adolescents and children who are HIV positive need to be properly informed and trained, thereby building their capacity to become champions to convey the right information amongst their peers”.
Nigeria ranks third among countries with highest burden of Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus (HIV) infection in the world. The 2019 Nigeria National HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey found that 1.9 million people are living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria as of 2018.
David has been encouraging adolescents in his community which resulted in his appointment as the Osun State coordinator for the association of positive youth living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria. This recognition saw him working with various organizations especially during the COVID-19 three month lock down, where they reached out to 150 adolescents and caregivers with nutritional support.
David says he leads by example. “I don’t drink, smoke or womanize, this has helped me live a healthy live and I work hard to take care of my family”.
